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Beta-Carotene
(Vitamin A precursor)
 Beta-carotene
is what gives yellow and orange fruit and vegetables their color.
The main
food sources of beta-carotene are yellow and green (leafy) vegetables such as
spinach, carrots and red peppers, and yellow fruit such as mango, melon and
apricots.
Recommended Dietary Allowances: Men = 5000 IU (or
3 mg beta carotene); Women = 4000 IU (or 2.4 mg beta carotene)
IMPORTANCE:
- Necessary for growth & repair of body tissues
- helps maintain smooth, soft disease-free skin
- helps protect the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose ,
throat & lungs, thereby reducing susceptibility to infections
- protects against air pollutants
- counteracts night-blindness & weak eyesight
- aids in bone and teeth formation.
- Current medical research shows that foods rich in Beta
Carotene will help reduce the risk of lung cancer & certain oral
cancers.
- Unlike Vitamin A from fish liver oil, Beta Carotene is
non-toxic.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
- May result in night blindness
- increased susceptibility to infections
- rough, dry, scaly skin
- loss of smell & appetite; frequents fatigue
- lack of tearing
- defective teeth & gums' retarded growth
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